Discipline Strategies for Preschoolers

Discipline strategies do not have to be overcomplicated. In the home or classroom setting, praise is a huge motivator for students. They want to be acknowledged for what they are doing. I love the Dr. Jean praises, "kiss your brain," or any of her hand motions for praises. Kids love this simple act and it doesn't take much time to implement. Check out her website or her videos on You tube for examples.

During transitions within the classroom, such as cleaning up, I have found that watching the students and paying close attention to individuals that are following directions is helpful. Giving a verbal acknowledgement to the entire class encourages everyone else to participate. If I were to say, "I love how so-and-so is cleaning" this generates interest in following directions. If there are only one or two students following the direction, I'm inclined to give these students a sticker. The kids don't know when I'll pull out stickers, and I only give them when they least expect it so they're not motivated to comply just to get a sticker.

Stickers or any other tool that work for students is a huge help. Some students are motivated by our weekly treasure box, so their behaviors can be quickly changed by discussing behavior issues and encouraging the student to make better choices. In my classroom, when students receive stickers for every school day, they receive treasure box. There are many factors that go into this, but it definitely encourages the students to think about their actions and follow class rules.

For problematic behaviors and students that are challenged with self-control issues I try other strategies. For example, I might take three buttons, pom-poms, or any other manipulative and encourage the change in behavior by allowing the student to have three chances throughout the day to still earn their sticker. This allows them more control and is a great tool for parents to also implement at home. This is a great tool if parents are on-board and can acknowledge that their child struggles with a specific behavior.

Filling jars, adding stars to bulletin boards, and other methods of praise for the entire class are excellent tools for times of transition, either during holidays or coming back to school from an extended break. This allows students to get back into the groove of class rules and expectations and everyone can be rewarded.